Rebecca Nederhiser, conductor of the Wartburg Community Symphony, has received third place in the American Prize — Vytautas Marijosius Memorial Award in Orchestral Programming for the second time in three years.
Nederhiser submitted the symphony’s Oct. 12, 2024, performance, “American Soundscapes,” for consideration. The concert opened with “The Block” by composer Carlos Simon, transporting listeners to several tableaus along a street in Harlem. Honoring a request from the late Bill Hamm, a board member who passed away in 2023, the symphony played Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait.” The piece was narrated by Jim Loveridge, one of Hamm’s lifelong friends and fellow arts supporter. A portrait of Abraham Lincoln, created by renowned Iowa artist Mauricio Lasansky, was on display in the lobby.
“Bill had a love of art, especially pieces by Mauricio Lasansky. This served as a powerful visual and sonic tribute to Bill, connected through the deeply meaningful partnerships on and off stage,” Nederhiser said.
The second half of the program featured works by Antonín Dvořák, including a world premiere of his aria “Kéž duch můj sám (Leave Me Alone),” sung by Kylie Gougler and arranged by Krista Vázquez-Connelly for a full orchestra. The concert concluded with Dvořák’s Cello Concerto in B Minor, featuring Ruth Marshall on cello.
“Overall, this program was just one snapshot of our commitment to presenting music beyond the concert hall and engaging audiences in personal connections to the works being performed,” Nederhiser said. “This award is a reflection of the symphony’s immense growth, innovation, creativity and community impact over the years. I am grateful for the support of our amazing board members, the college, our musicians, and patrons. The future is bright!”
Johanna Lovig, president of the Wartburg Community Symphony Association, said they are thrilled to celebrate Nederhiser’s American Prize win.
“This honor recognizes not only her extraordinary talent and musical artistry but also her remarkable leadership and unwavering dedication to her students and the broader community,” Lovig said. “We are incredibly proud of Rebecca and grateful for the inspiration, mentorship and commitment she shares with everyone around her.”
The American Prize — Vytautas Marijosius Memorial Award in Orchestral Programming honors the memory of the Lithuanian conductor and director of the Lithuanian State Opera. The award recognizes the best achievement in the unique field of orchestral programming, where the selection of repertoire by knowledgeable, creative and courageous music directors builds orchestras and audiences, educates young people and adults, and enriches the community.
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